The keelson was broken at what appeared to have been a mast step.
Because this feature was well forward of the position that would have been expected in a single-masted vessel of
similar width, it is likely that the Croatan wreck had at least two and probably three masts. Considering normal foremast placement,
we determined that the vessel had at a minimum length at the main deck of 110 feet--perhaps over 150 feet if all masts reached the keelson. To reach a
compromise figure, we split the difference at 130 feet.
Most characteristics, such as timber sizes, room and space, and the sizes of hull planks and ceilings,
suggest a vessel of around 400 tons.
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In the final analysis, we believe the Croatan wreck can be described as follows
based on our field documentation:
- the vessel was about 130 feet long (main deck) and about 35 feet in beam, with a depth of hold of about 12.5 feet, based on extrapolation of the surviving hull
- she was about 400 tons, based on the estimated dimensions
- she was probably a 3-masted schooner, based on size, the beamy hull, and the position of the mast step – this vessel type was the most common American coaster of the period
- she was built in America, based on construction methods
- and, based on the excellent condition of the hull surface, the smooth erosion and the location of worm holes only on the upper surfaces, we suggest that the wreck became covered with
bottom sediment shortly after foundering, eroded to its current height over a long period, and re-floated and beached at Croatan for the first time since her original sinking
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